The 2026 Formula 1 season marks the start of a new era, introducing controversial major regulation changes alongside the sport's ever-present politics. The grid features two new manufacturer teams and Honda's fresh start with Aston Martin, while drivers face immense pressure to prove themselves and meet expectations.
There is no shortage of compelling storylines for fans this year. Key questions include whether a four-way fight between Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren is realistic, or if one team will run away with the championship. George Russell enters as a title favorite, while veterans Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso face pivotal seasons that could define the ends of their careers.
The new technical regulations promise an extreme rate of development behind the scenes, particularly in aerodynamics and energy management. All eyes are also on new entrants like Cadillac, backed by General Motors, as they embark on their ambitious F1 journey. Meanwhile, Aston Martin, with all its resources and Adrian Newey's design genius, seeks to recover from a disappointing start and deliver on its potential.
Lando Norris aims to build on his championship win with a stronger campaign, and Isack Hadjar faces the daunting challenge of the second Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen. As the cars hit the track in Melbourne, the pre-season speculation ends and the true competitive order will be revealed.